Hemorrhoids are a frequent problem among people in their 40s and 50s. Hemorrhoids are enlargements of the veins in the lower abdomen, including the anus and rectum. The walls of the veins become over stretched that they protrude, causing discomfort and pain when using the bathroom. This is because they become dilated and inflamed, making sitting and bowel movements difficult. Hemorrhoids, fortunately, are preventable and treatable. If they are not treated immediately, they can worsen over time.
Hemorrhoids are such an annoyance that, believe it or not, they have risen to the top of the list of complaints afflicting middle-aged adults. In case a person is wondering if they have hemorrhoids, here's a general overview of what they are. Let's take a closer look at it right now.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, thankfully, are not life-threatening. However, they have a negative impact on certain body regions, particularly the anus and rectum. Surgery is only used in the most extreme cases where a painful clot has formed.
Pregnancy, squeezing excessively during bowel movements, and sitting on the toilet, for an extended period of time, are all major causes of hemorrhoids. These factors cause the veins to enlarge by disrupting the flow of blood. The following are some additional causes of hemorrhoids:
- Diet low in fiber, which makes it difficult to have a bowel movement
- Lifting of heavy objects
- Obesity
- Cancer of the colon
- Prior rectal surgery
- Injury to the spinal cord
- A lack of upright posture
- Constipation
- Excessive sitting, such as at an office desk while at work
- Injury of the anus and rectum area due to falling or slipping on a hard surface
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Because there are two types of hemorrhoids (external and internal), the symptoms differ depending on which type a person has. Internal hemorrhoids are the least painful type. The most obvious symptom is bright red blood in the toilet or on toilet paper. Internal hemorrhoids, however, have the potential to protrude and cause irritation or discomfort. It is important to remember that any type of bleeding from the rectum should not be considered normal. Although it is a sign of hemorrhoids, it could also be a sign of something more serious or fatal. As a result, a patient should consult their doctor.
External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are the most vexing. It can cause more significant irritability. Typically, a blood clot forms causing a lump to appear around the anus. This makes it more difficult to defecate or sit. The following are the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids:
Itching in the vicinity of the anus
- Swelling of the anus
- Discomfort
- Pain when sitting
- Bleeding that is painless
Getting Treated
In most cases, simple steps can be taken to relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids. Also, less severe hemorrhoids will heal on their own. Nonetheless, medications and sometimes surgery may be required at times. Some of the treatments used to relieve hemorrhoid symptoms are as follows. However, keep in mind that the doctor should be consulted before beginning any treatment. Only they can provide the best recommendations on the types of treatment.
- High-fiber diet
- Fiber supplement
- Stool softener
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Reduce time sitting on toilet
- Take warm sitz baths over the toilet; they can be found at the local pharmacy store
- Topical over-the-counter creams
- Apply cold compress to affected area
- Surgery
- Over-the-counter pain medicine
- Rubber band ligation to remove hemorrhoid
